Hamilton Gardens Cafe

Okay, this review isn't for the cafe itself. We ordered a picnic for which the cafe packed a great selection of food (that only those with the very biggest appetite might get through). All this in a lovely 'old school's picnic basket and blanket supplied. The atmosphere relates to the gardens - we were able to lay a blanket on the slopes by the lake under a tree... Hard to beat. The cafe itself is rather more ordinary. Service was great on the day - the staff appear to include many casual staff, so this will always be a bit variable, but I was there twice in two weeks with different staff on both occasions and they were all very friendly. The food itself isn't 'haute cuisine' but it was fresh and tasty and lots of variety... A bit like a home made picnic. The only thing I would highlight is that a lot of boxes were used to pack the food for two of us... Maybe an opportunity to improve sustainability a bit, but there is an argument that it may have been necessary for the variety.

My hubby had a delicious mince and cheese mini pie from a cabinet full of amazing selections to choose from. I appreciated that many of the foods had allergen notes on them and was able to enjoy a nut-free slice of carrot cake. The cafe had a lovely outlook over a large pond and staff were happy and friendly. We will come back!